Which description accurately reflects active ROM?

• A. Active ROM is performed by the patient; passive ROM is performed by someone else
• B. Active ROM requires equipment
• C. Passive ROM is performed by the patient
• D. Active ROM is never used in rehabilitation

Answer: (A)

Active range of motion is the movement of a joint produced by the person using their own muscles. It reflects what the patient can voluntarily control and is a key way to assess muscle strength and neuromuscular control, as well as joint flexibility. In contrast, passive range of motion is when another person moves the joint through its range with the patient not actively contracting the muscles.

That distinction is why the description stating that active ROM is performed by the patient and passive ROM is performed by someone else is the best choice. Equipment isn’t a defining requirement for active ROM—many active movements can be done with little or no tools. The idea that passive ROM is performed by the patient is incorrect, and active ROM is indeed used in rehabilitation, often with progressive resistance as healing allows.